Does repairing engine valves count as a major overhaul?
2 Answers
Repairing engine valves is considered a major overhaul, as valve repairs are quite complex. Here is an introduction to the relevant content: 1. Major automotive overhaul: A major automotive overhaul refers to the process where a new car or a car that has undergone a major overhaul is subjected to diagnostic testing and technical evaluation after traveling a certain distance or period. 2. Repair and replacement: It is a general term for restorative repairs that completely or nearly completely restore the vehicle's technical performance by repairing or replacing automotive parts. Below are extended recommendations for running-in after a major overhaul and for new cars: 1. Engine speed: The engine speed should not be too high; it is best not to exceed 3000 rpm. 2. Cold start: After a cold start, it is advisable to allow a warm-up period until the engine speed changes before driving. 3. Load regulations: The vehicle must adhere to the load regulations for its model, preferably not exceeding 70% of the specified load capacity. 4. Avoid sudden acceleration: Try to avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. Hard braking can cause significant impact damage to a new engine, especially sudden acceleration, which can severely affect the running-in of new engine components, directly impacting the fit clearance between parts.
I encountered engine valve maintenance issues during my daily driving. Last year, my old car's engine made strange noises, so I took it to the repair shop. The mechanic opened the cylinder head and fixed the valves. The entire process only involved the top components of the engine, without touching the bottom parts like the pistons or crankshaft. They told me this wasn’t a full engine overhaul, as an overhaul typically requires complete disassembly of the engine and refurbishment of all critical internal components, taking more time and costing significantly more. Valves are small components responsible for controlling air intake and exhaust; wear or carbon buildup can cause shaking or power loss. After the repair, the car ran smoothly again. I recommend car owners to watch out for similar symptoms—addressing them early can save both money and hassle. Using high-quality engine oil and regular maintenance can prevent such issues.
